Are you considering renting a self-storage unit in Wichita, KS? If so, it's essential to be organized and plan to make the most of the space. Check out these six tips for getting started.
How to Organize Your Items in Self-Storage Units
1. Use shelves for boxes and other items.
Using shelves is a great way to organize your boxes, books, and other items you plan to use frequently. They're also helpful for keeping the floor clear of clutter and making it easier to move throughout your storage unit.
Although any shelving will technically work, we recommend sturdy shelving with a high weight limit to easily handle anything you place on it. When setting up your shelving unit, place heavy items near the bottom, fragile (or light) items at the top, and items that you frequently use on the middle shelves.
Next, make sure all your boxes are labeled. Being well organized helps you remember where everything is or even helps a friend if they're getting something from your unit on your behalf!
After this step, try to organize the items by category (clothing vs. tools vs. sports gear), so related items are grouped and easier to find.
2. Label everything with a list of the contents.
Labeling every box you put in your unit is essential, whether it's full or empty. People often misplace items in their storage units because they cannot remember which unit they put them in. Labeling your boxes will always know where your belongings are, and you won't have to waste time searching through multiple units.
Labeling is also an effective way to keep track of items after they have been moved into your home when you unpack them again after moving out of storage into your new place! It may seem overkill at first because there will only be a few things left in each box, but it just becomes second nature after a while.
3. Fold clothing and linens neatly to save on space.
Folding is the easiest way to save space in a self-storage unit. To fold clothes and linens, first lay them flat on a surface so that the long edges are parallel (this will create an "L" shape).
Fold the bottom third of your piece of clothing up toward where it meets at the top, then fold it in half along its length.
Finally, fold both sides inward toward one another until they meet at their respective middle points (like folding in half) and place them into your storage unit together with their seams facing outwards so that any dirt or dust won't get trapped inside when you open them later on!
4. Create a list of what is in each box so that you can easily find each item.
If you feel overwhelmed by the size of your storage unit, creating a list of what's in can be helpful. After all, one of the main reasons people use self-storage units is because they need extra space for their stuff! But if you don't know what's in the unit already, how will you know what else needs to go in?
Here are a few tips when creating a list:
- Be as specific as possible. For example, if you have a box labeled "summer clothes," include a list of every item inside the box. This way, you will know precisely what is in the box and where to find it when you need it.
- Include the box number, what is in the box, and where it is located.
- Store the list with your other essential documents in a fireproof lockbox. This way, it will be protected from water damage and other disasters.
- Keep adding new things to your list as you move more boxes into your storage unit. If something gets lost or forgotten, you will have a comprehensive list of contents for each box to find whatever needs finding quickly!
5. Store large items like bikes and furniture against the walls.
If you have larger items like bicycles or furniture, it's best to store them against the walls of your self-storage unit. This will free up space in the middle of the unit so that you can store other things, and it will also help to protect your belongings from getting damaged if someone accidentally bumps into them while walking around.
To maximize space, you can also disassemble furniture before storing it in the unit. For example, take the legs off a table or the mattress and box spring off a bed frame. Just make sure to label all the pieces, so you know how to put them back together later! Another tip is to keep the legs and machinery (screws) together by tape or in a clear plastic bag so that everything is there when you go to reassemble.
6. Use a floor plan.
Just like moving into an apartment or home, having a floor plan will help keep everything organized and tidy. You might want to consider making sure that everything has its place, especially if it's something large like furniture pieces or appliances (think washing machines). Consider putting the items you want to use the closest to the front and the longer-term storage items in the back. This will save time when looking for where something goes when needed again.
Creating a floor plan is easy! Take a measuring tape and measure out the dimensions of your storage unit. Then, use graph paper to draw out a scale model of the space. Finally, start placing your belongings in the unit according to the floor plan.
Final Thoughts
If you take time to organize before you move in, then it will be easy to find what you need when you need it later.
Self-storage units can be a great way to keep your belongings safe and sound while you're in between homes or even need extra space. That way, it will be accessible when you need to find something later! But before you start packing everything into boxes, it's essential to take some time to think about how you're going to organize everything.
Contact South Rock Storage today to learn more about our self-storage units in Wichita, Kansas! We have a variety of sizes and amenities to choose from so that you can find the perfect unit for your needs. Give us a call or stop by our facility today!
